The technology uses AutoPower’s business system software platform as its backbone, which utilizes remote servers that enhance connectivity and automate accounting and inventory management for distributors, Vipar says.
“The core business of our stockholders is selling parts,” says Steve Crowley, president of Vipar. “Our innovative technology solutions are all focused on enhancing their ability to most efficiently get the right part to their customers. We are pleased that seven of our stockholders have adopted the hosted solution among their 27 locations. We expect the adoption rate for this innovative solution will continue to accelerate as distributors seek to change their often costly business systems.”
Ogburn’s Truck Parts of Fort Worth, Texas has been an AutoPower customer since 1997 and been with Vipar since 2001. Company President Tom Ogburn says AutoPower “customized their software program to meet our needs.” The company now has all of its 10 locations connected through the software, which the company says allows real-time inventory look up for every store in their network. With the upgrade to the hosted system and the installation of T-1 lines, Ogburn Truck Parts claims to have experienced improved response times among its branches.
Frey Heavy Duty in Western New York has also benefited from the AutoPower system, says owner Gary Courtwright. According to Courtwright, Frey Heavy Duty appreciates the flexibility and customization of AutoPower’s software solutions.
“When the server crashed on Labor Day weekend of 2007, we discovered our back-up tapes were blank,” he says. “We came out of that difficult situation with the help of AutoPower.”
Courtwright says “real-time” accessibility allows his company to balance its inventory quickly, and the remote access feature lets him easily access the system using a home laptop.
